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The map entitled Geological Map of the Shores of the Dead Sea, drawn under the auspices of Mr. Duke of Luynes by Mr. Louis Lartet is a comprehensive geological representation of the Dead Sea region.  

The main feature of the map is the Dead Sea itself, which is depicted with bathymetric shading to illustrate varying depths. Surrounding areas are meticulously categorized with color-coded geological formations, as described in the legend, including alluvial deposits, ancient Dead Sea sediments, nummulitic limestones, and volcanic formations such as basalt and dolerite. Additional geological features like gypsum, bitumen, and mineral springs are also indicated. The map includes a longitudinal section showing the water densities of the Dead Sea's layers, along with a chart for the depths derived from previous soundings.

The detailed legend provides an extensive explanation of the different formations marked by various colors and symbols, offering insight into the diverse geological composition of the area. Notably, thermal and saline mineral springs are marked, reflecting the scientific interest in the region’s hydrothermal activity. The accompanying notes detail specific points where water samples were taken during the expedition, with dates and locations such as Ras Feschkah and the Jordan River’s mouth. 

The note translates as follows:

The topographical details are borrowed from Mr. Vignes' map. The view of the western shore of the Dead Sea was drawn based on a series of sketches taken at sea by the author, during the course of his navigation on the Seyor. The volcanic massifs of W. Safich, first noted by Irby and Maugles, have been confidently marked, the author having been able to verify for himself the abundance of basalt in the bed of this watercourse. The hot spring of W. Beni Hamed was indicated according to the map of Commander Mansell.

The map was prepared during the 1864 Dead Sea expedition led by Honoré Paul Joseph d'Albert, duc de Luynes, a notable art collector, archaeologist, and scientist. This pioneering mission represented the first systematic survey of the Dead Sea region's geological and archaeological features, contributing significantly to understanding its paleontology, geology, and the chemical composition of the lake. The expedition also photographed and mapped the area, including cities, under the direction of Louis Vignes, a French naval officer and photographer. The journey encompassed locations in present-day Jordan and Syria, with observations documented in preliminary and subsequent publications. De Luynes' interdisciplinary interests, supported by his substantial wealth, extended to Greco-Roman antiquities and scientific advancements in chemistry, geology, and photography.